For Martin Keogh, the DASBE funded Higher Diploma in Residential Energy Retrofit Management at TUS was a game changer. After more than 10 years working in retail and leisure management, Martin started working with his wife, Marcella, on his days off. Marcella runs her own company, Carrig Energy Consultancy, and Martin would lend a hand with on-site surveys.

When the business was approved by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland One Stop Shops to retrofit residential buildings, Martin came on board as a Retrofit Project Coordinator, marking the beginning of his new career in energy upgrades and project management.

However, he realised he needed to deepen his technical knowledge.

“As the retrofit industry and the grant schemes became more centred on the whole house approach,” says Martin, “I felt the gap in my knowledge needed to be addressed to make everyday communication and advice more comfortable and relatable for me.”

He says he chose the Higher Diploma in Residential Energy Retrofit Management as the most suitable to cover all subjects.

Despite a full-time job, four children, and coaching, Martin found the course manageable thanks to its flexibility, and the availability of subsidised funding made it more affordable.

“The two evening classes a week suited our family lifestyle. Many Saturdays and Sundays were then set aside for the completion of assignments, alongside site visits and practical workshops.”

“Completion of the nine modules has vastly increased my knowledge base. I find communication with homeowners, builders, engineers, and SEAI inspectors less daunting now and feel all advice and instructions are on a more even keel.”

DASBE funding is available for September 2025.

Visit Higher Diploma in Residential Energy Retrofit Management for more information